Selenium: functions, dosage, side effects, how to use

What Drug Selenium?

What is selenium for?

Selenium is a drug with the function of preventing selenium deficiency. In addition, selenium has been used as an alternative medicine to treat Hashimoto's thyroiditis (an autoimmune disorder of the thyroid tissue) and to treat high cholesterol.

Selenium is a mineral commonly found in soil and naturally contained in certain foods (such as whole grains, Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and seafood). Selenium is not produced in the body, although it is needed to facilitate the function of the immune system and the thyroid gland.

Selenium dosages and selenium side effects are detailed below.

How is selenium used?

When considering taking herbal supplements, consult your doctor first. You can also consult a practitioner who is trained in using herbal / health supplements. If you decide to take selenium, make sure to take it only according to the instructions on the packaging or follow the advice of your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

Long-term use of selenium at doses above 400 micrograms (mcg) per day can result in serious medical problems, and even death. Do not increase or decrease the dosage of this product beyond the recommended dosage listed on the product label.

The daily nutritional requirement (RDA) for selenium consumption will increase with age. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions.

If you are going to have surgery, tell the doctor who handles the surgery that you are taking selenium. You may need to stop taking this product at least 2 weeks before surgery.

This treatment can affect the results of some medical tests. Tell the doctor who tests you that you are taking selenium.

How is selenium stored?

This medication is best stored at room temperature, away from direct light and damp places. Don't keep it in the bathroom. Don't freeze it. Other brands of this drug may have different storage rules. Observe the storage instructions on the product package or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush medicines down the toilet or down the drain unless instructed to do so. Discard this product when it has expired or when it is no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company about how to safely dispose of your product.

Selenium dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.

What is the selenium dosage for adults?

The recommended dose is 20-40 mcg / day

What is the selenium dosage for children?

The recommended dose is 3 mcg / kg / day

In what dosage is selenium available?

400mcg / 10 mL injection

Selenium side effects

What side effects can be experienced due to selenium?

If symptoms of an overdose appear while taking selenium, get medical help right away.

Overdose symptoms include:

• diarrhea
• weakened fingers
• hair loss
• irritation
• rash on the skin
• nausea and vomiting
• unusual fatigue

Not everyone experiences the following side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have concerns about certain side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Selenium Drug Warnings and Cautions

What should be known before using selenium?

Before using certain drugs, consider the risks and benefits first. This is a decision you and your doctor will have to make. For this drug, pay attention to the following:

Allergy

Tell your doctor if you have any unusual or allergic reactions to this or any other medicine. Also tell your doctor if you have any other types of allergies such as to food, coloring, preservatives, or animal allergies. For over-the-counter products, read the labels on the packaging carefully.

Children

There is no specific information on the effects of selenium sulfide use in infants or children when compared to adults. However, this drug should not produce as different side effects for children as it does for adults.

Elderly

Many drugs have not been studied specifically for the elderly. Therefore, it is not known whether the drug will work as well as in young adults. Although there is no specific information regarding the effects of selenium sulfide use in the elderly when compared to other age categories, selenium should not cause as different side effects in older people as it does in adults.

Is selenium safe for pregnant and lactating women?

There are no adequate studies regarding the risks of using this drug in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Always consult your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before using this medication. This drug is included in the risk of pregnancy category D according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The following references the pregnancy risk categories according to the FDA:

A = Not at risk

B = No risk in several studies

C = May be risky

D = There is positive evidence of risk

X = Contraindicated

N = Unknown

Selenium Drug Interactions

What medications might interact with selenium?

Although some drugs should not be taken at the same time, in other cases some drugs can also be used together even though interactions may occur. In such cases, the doctor may change the dose, or take other preventive measures as needed. Tell your doctor if you are taking any other over-the-counter or prescription drugs.

Can food or alcohol interact with selenium?

Certain drugs should not be used with meals or when eating certain foods because drug interactions can occur. Consuming alcohol or tobacco with certain drugs can also cause interactions to occur. Discuss your use of drugs with food, alcohol, or tobacco with your health care provider.

What health conditions can interact with selenium?

Any other health conditions you have can affect the use of this drug. Always tell your doctor if you have other health problems, especially:

• open wounds, blisters or abrasions on your scalp or body, using this medication on the injured area may increase the absorption of the drug into the skin

Selenium overdose

What should I do in an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or overdose, contact the local emergency services provider (112) or immediately to the nearest hospital emergency department.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you forget a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, when it is nearing the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the usual dosing schedule. Don't double the dose.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.